The healthy alternative to medications

(WPRI) - Instead of treating ailments with pricey medications, try to treat light symptoms with the natural alternative, herbal tea!

Local herbalist, Mary Blue, joined the Rhode Show Monday to talk of this healthy alternative and its benefits to one’s health.

“Our focus is on using locally grown herbs to support health,” said Blue. She is the founder of Farmacy Herbs located in Providence, R.I.

Blue described Farmacy Herbs as a small herbal product company, herb school and natural health resource center. Offering classes for both adults and children, Blue and her staff share the health benefits of natural herbs and how they can be incorporated into anyone’s lifestyle.

“Our products are grown and classes are held at two locations: a small urban farm/ storefront in Providence, and a five- acre farm in West Greenwich,” said Blue.

To further explain how the herbs are used, Blue brought several herbs to the Rhode Show set, and each herb served a different purpose for one’s health.

• Elderberry: Parts of the plant used: Flower and Berry: Uses: Immune stimulant, febrifuge (reduces fevers through encouraging sweating), Anti-viral.
• Mullein: Parts of the plant used: Leaf and Flower: Uses: Respiratory support, expectorant, the flowers are extracted in oil and used for ear aches.
• Nettle: Parts of the plant used: Leaf and Seed: Uses: Anti-inflammatory, high in vitamins and minerals especially silicia which supports healthy hair, nails, skin and cartilage, anti-histamine, helps relieve seasonal allergies.
• Valerian: Part of the plant used: Root: Uses: Nervous system support, sedative, pain reliever, anti-spasmodic. Induces sleep, reduces cramps and can relieve pain from injury.
• Sage: Part of the plant used: Leaf: Uses: Digestive upsets, respiratory health, aids the body during colds/ flu.

If you are interested in purchasing these natural herbs, or want to participate in one of Blue’s classes, visit http://www.farmacyherbs.com.